# EP 21: Estrangement: Healing, Harm — or Something In Between?

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/breaking-up-with-toxicity-6618238/ep-21-estrangement-healing-harm-or-something-in-between
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/breaking-up-with-toxicity-6618238/ep-21-estrangement-healing-harm-or-something-in-between.md
Podcast: [Breaking Cycles with Maria](https://stenobird.com/podcast/breaking-up-with-toxicity-6618238)
Published: 2026-01-08T13:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://breaking-up-with-toxicity.captivate.fm
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/30c5b1a0-0dd6-4f7e-81f8-e75024c7dd64.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/breaking-up-with-toxicity-6618238/episodes/ep-21-estrangement-healing-harm-or-something-in-between
Duration seconds: 818

## Resource

Estrangement isn’t just “cutting people off.” It can be protection… and it can also be avoidance disguised as healing. In this episode, Maria Shkreli, LMHC breaks down the truth behind estrangement — what it actually is, the different types, and why it’s far more complex than social media makes it seem. We explore how trauma, family dynamics, and unresolved attachment wounds can lead to distance — but also how trend-driven messages, including the popular “Let Them” narrative popularized by Mel Robbins, can quietly push people toward isolation without reflection, context, or accountability. In this episode, we talk about: • the five main types of estrangement , with real-life examples • when distance is necessary and protective vs. when it becomes harmful and avoidant • how trauma and emotional regulation influence estrangement decisions • how “cut them off” culture can damage vulnerable people • why the “Let Them” theory can backfire when misunderstood or misapplied • the questions to ask before making permanent relational decisions This episode challenges viral narratives and invites deeper reflection — so your choices come from clarity, not impulsive pain . Estrangement isn’t a trend. It deserves wisdom, thoughtfulness, and compassion . If this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs it — and don’t forget to follow the show.

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## Transcript

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